Canton Township officials have expressed significant concerns regarding the transport of radioactive waste through their community, following a recent government meeting where a resolution was passed to formally oppose the plan. The resolution addresses the impending transport of 6,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil and concrete, along with 4,000 gallons of groundwater, from the Niagara Falls storage site in New York to the Wayne Disposal Incorporated hazardous waste landfill.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is set to begin this multi-year project, which will see 25 semi-trailer loads of radioactive waste transported weekly on local highways from late August through January 2025. Canton Township officials were alarmed to learn that they had not been notified about the transport, raising public safety concerns for residents and infrastructure in the region.

The resolution, supported by the Conference of Western Wayne—a coalition of 18 communities representing over 730,000 residents—calls for the federal government to reconsider the acceptance of this waste at the Wayne disposal site and to explore alternative disposal solutions. Officials emphasized the need for transparency and communication regarding safety measures, transport routes, and the testing of waste before disposal.

During the meeting, township officials highlighted the historical context of the issue, noting that a Supreme Court ruling from 17 years ago classified toxic waste as interstate commerce, complicating local efforts to deny its transport. They underscored the urgency of changing interstate agreements to prevent such waste from being transported through their communities.

In addition to the resolution, the meeting also covered various administrative matters, including the approval of a $60,000 grant for election administration and contracts for environmental assessments and infrastructure improvements. A town hall meeting is planned for the Wednesday after Labor Day to further discuss the radioactive waste issue with residents and officials.